The handles are the reason I gave these knives only 4 stars. They are attractive, but the wood doesn’t quite fit right. The scales, as their called, are a millimeter smaller than the tang so there’s a little spine of exposed metal that runs the entire perimeter of the handle. It’s not just my set either. A friend who bought it on my recommendation also has this problem. They’re not uncomfortable to hold, but you can feel the ridge. Perhaps it was done intentionally for style or grip, but I doubt that.

The block is fantastic. The big issue with the traditional wooden blocks is that they tend to absorb water. This makes the slots a bit damp which can stain or rust blades. It’s even worse if you put your knives away wet (which you shouldn’t have done in the first place). The water pools in the slots and stays in contact with the blade. The arrangement of the glass plates allow ample room for air to circulate. The honing steel tucks away nicely into the post. There is one caveat though. The tempered glass is much harder than the steel blades so care must be taken when putting the blades away or you may damage your edge.

All in all a great set of knives that look and work great.
Rating: 4 / 5